Alfreton slimmer set to inspire new group

Successful slimmer Ashleigh Gascoyne is set to inspire others by her weight loss at the relaunch of a fitness group in Alfreton.

Ashleigh, 23, is set to take over the same Slimming World group she was once a member of, as she starts her new role as a consultant.

Ashleigh, from Ripley, shed two-stone by attending the group meetings and now has a new, positive outlook on life.

She said: “My outlook on life has totally changed and I am excited to start a new chapter in my life and face a new challenge.

“I can’t wait to inspire and encourage others and to help them rid the burden of being overweight.”

Ashleigh’s journey to weight loss started in January 2015 weighing more than 13 stone, after she missed out on Christmas festivities due to being insecure about her weight.

She said: “I didn’t want to socialise really, I just felt so uncomfortable in my own skin so I pretty much hibernated over the festive season. When January came around, I realised I needed to do something.

“Finding my local Slimming World group was the best decision I ever made. I had always felt like I had to choose between living the social life I had or losing weight, and now I have found a way to live life and stay in control too.

“From the moment I walked through the door I couldn’t believe how friendly and welcoming everyone was. I was really nervous about sitting in group but have never met so many understanding people who all care so much about your success.

“The group has been behind me every step of the way, it’s great knowing I can always count on them for their support.